Published at 16:15, Monday, 18 February 2013

ONE of Cumbria’s most popular building societies has appointed a new director.

BOB WATSON

The Cumberland Building Society has appointed Bob Watson as a new non-executive director.

The Cumberland is the UK’s eleventh-largest building society and Cumbria’s largest financial organisation, with assets of more than £1.5bn.

Mr Watson was born in County Down, Northern Ireland, but has lived in England since graduating from Loughborough University in 1974 with a degree in Chemical Engineering.

He lives in Cockermouth with his wife Janette and is also chairman of Mitchells Auction Company Limited. He is also on the board of CN Media Group Limited – the owners of the North-West Evening Mail.

From 2006 to 2009 he chaired West Lakes Renaissance and was a director of Cumbria Vision.

Mr Watson said: “I am very pleased to be joining the Cumberland’s board of directors.

“The Cumberland is one of our region’s most successful businesses and I am looking forward to being part of its continuing success.”

Michael Pratt, the Cumberland’s chairman, said: “This is an excellent appointment for the Cumberland, and I am pleased to welcome Bob to the board.

“Bob’s appointment will contribute towards strengthening the society’s strategic position as it continues to grow within a difficult and challenging environment.

“Bob’s business experience, management skills and knowledge of our region will help the board continue to deliver outstanding results for our members.”

Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk